Land Rover Defender

Positives:

• The massive glass area, including a panoramic sunroof and unique safari windows, provides a bright cabin environment and exceptional visibility.

• The Pivi Pro infotainment system with a large touchscreen is responsive, offering wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and seamless connectivity.

• There is configurable cabin lighting, multiple USB ports, and wireless charging, ensuring a premium touch to the interior ambience and convenience for all passengers.

• Is available in five-, six-, seven-, and eight-seat configurations, and has a surprising amount of room in the second row along with plenty of head and legroom.

• The ClearSight rearview mirror transforms into a screen, providing an unobstructed rear view despite the presence of the spare wheel.

• The wading depth of about 900mm, combined with wade sensing, ensures preparedness for water crossings.

Negatives:

• Users of the high-tech features and controls in the Defender will need to get used to the functions for smoother operation.

Positives:

• The Defender has scored a five-star safety rating in the crash tests conducted by the Euro NCAP.
• It has six airbags, emergency brake assist, and a comprehensive suite of ADAS functions, including adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist.
• The 360-degree camera with Ground View, hill descent control, and All-Terrain Progress Control make off-road driving and manoeuvrability in tight spaces safer and less stressful.
• The electronic stability control and roll stability control enhance stability on uneven terrains and the sturdy aluminium monocoque construction ensures rigidity.

Negatives:

• We noticed that the advanced safety features (ADAS) can feel intrusive during spirited driving on normal Indian roads.

Positives:

• It has a rugged yet modern design that pays homage to the classic Defender.

• The unique two-door layout enhances its distinctive character, while the robust build emphasises its off-road focus.
• The cabin design blends utilitarian elements like rubberised materials with premium features like soft-touch plastics and digital displays.

• The second-row seats offer surprising headroom and legroom, with the safari windows adding charm and practicality.

• The high stance, boxy profile, and short overhangs allow it to have a commanding road presence.

Negatives:

• In the two-door version, rear-seat ingress and egress can be cumbersome for the occupants.
• The fixed rear windows (two-door configuration) and limited bootspace detract slightly from practicality.